1:49pm UK, Tuesday August 15, 2006Up to one million children in the UK could be suffering domestic violence, a report has claimed.The estimate is part of a UN survey that up to 275 million young people worldwide endure physical, sexual and psychological attacks.

The figures come from a worldwide study by the United Nations on violence against children.

It found between 240,000 and 963,000 children were exposed to domestic violence in Britain.

Dr Amaya Gillespie, of the UN, said more work was needed.

She said: "We are just beginning to develop a clearer global picture of the problem and are in a position to call for action by governments and communities to stop the exposure of children to domestic violence."

The report also revealed:

:: One in 14 children in the UK may receive poor exam results because of the effects of domestic violence in their homes.

:: Children may suffer from a range of effects including low self-esteem, aggression, behaviour and adjustment problems.

:: Young people who grow up around violence may show some of the same behavioural problems as direct victims.

Anita Roddick, of the Body Shop, said: "Domestic violence is one of the biggest human rights challenges of our time.

"It is a global phenomenon of epic proportions that knows no geographical boundaries."